Where do I begin? In December 2025, I experienced heartbreak like no other 💔. My mum closed her eyes for the very last time 😢. She fought so hard, but she had suffered greatly since August, and her body simply couldn’t take any more.

In November, we discovered that Mum had suffered a heart attack and a stroke without even knowing it. Because of this, my son-in-law Alex and I will be taking on this challenge together. Alex has also experienced loss, having lost his grandad to a stroke.

These losses will stay with us, and they’re a reminder of how suddenly life can change and how many families are affected by heart and stroke conditions every day. Because of this, Alex and I want to do something positive in their memory. Together, we’re raising awareness for the Chest, Heart and Stroke Association, in the hope that greater awareness, support and research can help protect others and support families going through similar heartbreak.

By signing up to the Forth Bridge Abseil 2026, you’re making a real difference to the 1 in 5 people in Scotland who are living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and Long Covid.

Every penny you raise will allow us to reach even more people who desperately need our help through our Community Healthcare Support Service.